With the summer months in full swing, offering longer, warmer days, people across the country are spending more time next to dams, rivers and pools.
Although time by the pool or riverside is undoubtedly one of the best ways to while away the lazy summer days, water safety remains of the utmost importance to prevent drowning.
In most cases, near-drowning or drowning can be prevented by applying a few useful tips, and practicing constant vigilance when around a body of water.
Toddlers and young children are usually the most vulnerable when around water, and an adult should always be within arm’s reach to provide active supervision.
Even strong swimmers need adult supervision, and life jackets are the most effective way of ensuring water safety and peace of mind.
When around a public pool it is advisable to stay away from drains, filters and water intakes. Loose hair or clothing can get tangled in these, possibly trapping a child underwater.
Remove toys from the pool, as a child may fall into the water trying to retrieve a toy.
According to Lifesaving South Africa, it is important to keep the following tips in mind when
spending time around or in water.
River Safety
• Check the strength of the current by throwing a small twig into the water (remember the current is
stronger on the outside of bends).
• If you get caught in a current, float on your back with your feet downstream. Angle yourself to the
shore.
• Submerged objects can be very dangerous. Always enter the water feet first.
• River conditions can change rapidly from heavy rainfall or release of water from storage areas.
Lake and Dam Safety
• Cold water in lakes and dams can cause distress. The water below the surface is often colder than
you expect. This sudden reduction in temperature can cause shock and lack of mobility. If this
happens, get out of the water immediately.
• The bottom of lakes and dams can be soft, uneven and changeable. Be careful of submerged
objects and always enter the water feet first.
• Lakes and dams are open expanses of water. A rising wind can suddenly cause choppy waves that
make it dangerous to swim.
General Water Safety
• Don’t swim directly after a meal, or when under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Protect your skin. Always use a sunscreen of at least 15+. Limit your exposure, particularly
between 10:00 and 16:00.
• Never swim alone and always limit the distance you swim out, knowing that you have to swim back
Alcohol Abuse
• Alcohol abuse is known to be the prime cause of aquatic/drowning disasters.
• Swimming and alcohol do not mix
